Synonym Discussion of COMPEL

force, compel, coerce, constrain, oblige mean to make someone or something yield. force is the general term and implies the overcoming of resistance by the exertion of strength, power, or duress <forced to flee for their lives>. compel typically suggests overcoming of resistance or unwillingness by an irresistible force <compelled to admit my mistake>. coerce suggests overcoming resistance or unwillingness by actual or threatened violence or pressure <coerced into signing over the rights>. constrain suggests the effect of a force or circumstance that limits freedom of action or choice <constrained by conscience>. oblige implies the constraint of necessity, law, or duty <felt obliged to go>.

compel

verbcom·pel\kəm-ˈpel\

com·pelledcom·pel·ling

Definition of COMPEL for Kids

1

: to make (as a person) do something by the use of physical, moral, or mental pressure :force<… so greatly did hunger compel him, he was not above taking what did not belong to him. — Jack London, The Call of the Wild>

2

: to make happen by force <He compelled obedience.>

Word Root of COMPEL

The Latin word pellere, meaning “to cause to move” or “to drive,” gives us the root pel. Words from the Latin pellere have something to do with driving or causing something to move. To propel is to drive forward. To compel is to drive someone to do something. To expel is to drive out. To repel is to drive back or away.